Inverness Chamber of Commerce is a small Chamber located in the Highlands of Scotland. Although we are small, we are the largest and most ambitious membership organisation in our region of Scotland. Inverness is considered to be the “capital of the Highlands”.
We exist to connect, support and represent our members and the wider business community.
We work with companies across a range of sizes and sectors, but the majority of the clients we support are in the Food & Drink, Energy & Renewables, Engineering, Aquaculture, Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Professional Business Services industries.
We started offering International Trade Services in 2014 and are well-placed in our region to support companies with their imports and exports.
Tell us about the team
Our team brings in a range of expertise and although we are small, we make a big impact (or so we like to think and so our clients tell us!)
Sarah and Changu are the core International trade team, working on the management and delivery of Import & Export Training, International Trade Missions, Technical Support, Export Documentation and ChamberCustoms.
Kara and Talia work as our “international backup” support for holiday cover or busy periods. (Kara is currently on Maternity leave after the birth of her little girl, Callie ❤).
What’s your favourite part of your job?
The variety – every day is different and brings a new challenge. There is never a dull moment in the fast-paced world of international trade!
Where we are in the Highlands of Scotland, we are lucky to work with some fantastic companies.
We work with some of the world’s top whisky producers (and yes, we get free samples every so often!) 🥃 Although it’s not all about whisky, gin and seafood!
We pride ourselves on building relationships with our customers, getting to know each and every client on a 1:1 basis.
Our clients are also very grateful for the work we do and even send us flowers to say thanks – it is so nice to be appreciated!
What’s the biggest misconception people have about customs clearance?
The importance in providing the “small details”. As we all know at ChamberCustoms, the small details are incredibly important. Information such as transport details cannot just be left blank if they are unknown.
The length of time it takes to check everything – it is not just a quick turnaround and in order to maintain high compliance levels, it takes time to check everything to make sure it is all accurate.
People don’t always appreciate how often the rules and regulations change. This all takes time to research, understand and implement.
What advice would you give a business which is considering exporting overseas?
Speak to your local Chamber to find out about the range of support available. A lot of Chambers run trade missions which are a great way to make initial connections in market, so keep an eye out for upcoming trade missions.
Spend time on market research – this can be key for your export planning strategies and allows you to assess what demand there might be for your product or service.
Put staff through import and export training. Compliance is vitally important so investing in regular training ensures you can remain on top of the changing rules and regulations.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
There is always plenty of cake in our office – our team all enjoy Netflix, baking and snacks in our free time… 🍫🧁
This is balanced out by walking – exploring the beautiful part of Scotland that we live in. We are lucky to have the best of both – city and country life – right on our doorstep. 🏕
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Live life to the fullest and appreciate the little things in life!
